Tech Sense: September 2026

Back to School 2026

I am writing in August and schools in Maryland are opening in August again. When I was growing up school normally began the day after Labor Day. Go figure!

Things to Teach your Kids First

Before your kids go to school you can start by teaching your children how to stay safe. Make certain your kids know and remember their names, addresses and emergency phone numbers. Also, include a card securely stored in a book bag or other generally safe place that includes this information. Include bus stop information and anything you feel may be relevant in regards to your child.

I also like the practice of giving the child a code word. When you have to communicate a message to your child through another party, the code word can give your child confidence that the message came from you. Do not write this code word on the card. The child must remember this secret code word.

Teach your children (especially the older ones), how to create secure passwords. I publish at least one column a year showing how to create secure passwords. Pick a method and teach it to your child for them to use.

Set up a Learning Location At Home

Learning doesn’t end at the end of the school day. Set up a learning area in your home with computing devices for the kids to do their homework and classroom projects. I do not like having children working in their bedrooms with the door closed because the Internet is a dangerous place for children. If a separate workspace can’t be found, have them leave their doors open while they use the computers.

Install a tool like OpenDNS (free) on the network or individually on each computer to block harmful Internet content. In the past, I have helped people select email services that limit who a child can communicate with exchange via email.

I would also consider removing or disabling any AI software on computers used by younger children.

About Computer Gear

Distribution of computer gear used in schools today has changed a lot. Often younger children get access to tablets. Older children in are more likely to get Chromebooks. Access to desktop, laptop, or notebook computers will typically go to the upper students.

Keep this in mind if you are considering purchasing computers. Computers have increased significantly in costs due to the demand from the AI industry. I have successfully purchased refurbished (used) computers for years. Microcenter is a good place to shop locally.

Accessories

I personally prefer using a mouse but many kids like the touch pads on the computer instead. Today’s students need a headset. The headset allows the student to speak and listen without disturbing those around them. Tablets and laptops usually include a camera. The camera allows remote learning. Cameras for desktop computers are available as well.

I always like to make sure the student has a USB Thumb Drive to backup any assignments or other work.

Software

Most of the software the students need should be provided or available from the school. If you are using an older of Windows (Windows 10 for example), you may want a malware protection program like McAfee. I prefer using free and open software for anything else. My daughters did all of their schoolwork on free software like LibreOffice and Gimp.

Home Printers

Typically, a family only needs a single color printer but your mileage may vary. I prefer the all-in-one printers that include a scanner and a printer. There are a number of inexpensive printers available but they make up the cost by making the ink expensive. Now bulk ink printers have become more popular. These are less expensive to operate but cost more to purchase. If you expect to print a lot, get a bulk ink printer.

Until Next Month

Have a great a first day of school, next month I may write on stopping SPAM.